Premier League rivals 'open talks' for Chelsea outcast as asking price set

Everton have opened talks with Chelsea over a move for midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, according to reports.

The west London club have enjoyed a busy transfer window so far, securing several high-profile signings, including Joao Pedro from Brighton, Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund, and most recently, Jorrel Hato from Ajax. Further arrivals are expected before the window shuts on September 1, with RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons and Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho also rumoured to be targets.

There have also been some significant departures, with Joao Felix’s move to Al Nassr and Noni Madueke’s switch to London rivals Arsenal completed in recent weeks. Now, Dewsbury-Hall could be the next to leave, with Everton reportedly stepping up their interest in the 26-year-old.

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According to The Times’ Paul Joyce, the Toffees are in discussions with Chelsea over a potential deal. A conflicting report from journalist Fabrizio Romano goes a step further, claiming that a bid has already been submitted for a permanent transfer, which is something Chelsea are said to be open to.

Dewsbury-Hall joined Chelsea from Leicester City only last summer for £30 million, following manager Enzo Maresca to Stamford Bridge. He made 36 appearances across all competitions last season, but started just two Premier League matches.

He faces stiff competition for places in Chelsea’s midfield, with Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo firmly established as the preferred pairing in a double pivot, while Romeo Lavia is also pushing for a starting role. Dewsbury-Hall has four years remaining on his contract at Stamford Bridge, with an option to extend for a further year, meaning he won’t come cheap if Everton decide to firm up their interest.

It has been widely reported this summer that Chelsea will demand a fee in the region of £30 million to part ways with the player this summer. That means they will recoup almost the entirety of the fee they paid to Leicester City only 12 months ago.

The Toffees are not the only club linked with the midfielder this summer, with West Ham and Fulham also believed to be monitoring his situation. That said, the latest developments suggest Everton may be in pole position to secure his signature should he leave before the transfer deadline.

Chelsea’s squad are expected to return for pre-season training this week, having been granted time off following their historic Club World Cup win last month. Maresca’s side are scheduled to play two friendlies against Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan before their Premier League campaign kicks off against Crystal Palace on August 17.